Well, he would, wouldn't he?

Once again Mandy Rice-Davies has the right words, in this case, for Trump and Putin. It isn't staggering any more, alas, that Trump behaves like this, but it is still extraordinary how the Republican party goes along with it. No doubt will make individual motivations clearer, but one doesn't have to reach far for the possibilities.

Meanwhile, on the theme of abdication of political responsibility and general mendaciousness on this side of the Atlantic, I must catch up on Brexit news. Motivations here are at least pretty transparent: political ambition and the desire to short-sell the country for a quick buck.

Back from holiday, and back to work tomorrow. The inbox looms, but I am resolutely ignoring all thought of it until the hour arrives.